Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Pasta e Fagioli Soup is a hearty, comforting Italian soup made with lean ground beef, tender beans, vegetables, and pasta, all simmered in a savory tomato-based broth. It’s rich in flavor, quick to make, and perfect for cozy dinners or a filling meal any time of the year.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Pasta e Fagioli Soup is a one-pot wonder filled with layers of savory flavors from the beef, vegetables, and perfectly seasoned broth. The combination of kidney beans, cannellini beans, and ditalini pasta makes the soup hearty and satisfying. It’s a perfect balance of protein, fiber, and comforting textures, with the added freshness of herbs and a sprinkle of Parmesan for that extra touch of deliciousness. Quick to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients

For the Soup:
2 tbsp olive oil
1 lb lean ground beef
1 ½ cups chopped sweet onion (or yellow onion)
1 cup diced carrots (about 2 medium)
1 cup diced celery (about 3 stalks)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 (24 oz) can tomato sauce
3 ½ cups chicken stock (plus more if desired)
1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
1 tbsp brown sugar
1 ½ tbsp Italian seasoning
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 cup dry ditalini pasta (or other short pasta like elbow pasta)
1 (15 oz) can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed

For Garnish:
Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
2 tbsp minced fresh parsley
2 tbsp minced fresh basil

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the Ground Beef:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned.

2. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the beef to a large bowl and drain all but 2 tablespoons of fat.

Sauté the Vegetables:

1. In the same pot, add the onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté over medium-high heat until they begin to soften, about 4-5 minutes.

2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1 minute.

Add the Tomato Paste:

1. Stir in the tomato paste and cook until it deepens in color, about 2-3 minutes.

Deglaze and Add Liquids:

1. Deglaze the pot by adding ½ cup of water or more chicken stock, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pot.

2. Stir in the chicken stock, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, brown sugar, Italian seasoning, and the cooked beef. Bring to a boil.

Simmer the Soup:

1. Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the pasta and beans, and let the soup simmer for 8-10 minutes or until the pasta is al dente.

2. Add more chicken stock to adjust the consistency if desired.

Serve:

1. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, basil, and grated Parmesan cheese.

2. Enjoy this hearty, comforting, and flavorful Pasta e Fagioli Soup!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add more vegetables: Try adding zucchini, spinach, or kale for added flavor and nutrition.

• Make it vegetarian: Skip the ground beef and use vegetable broth and extra beans or lentils for a plant-based version.

• Spicy version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for some heat.

• Use a different pasta: You can substitute ditalini with any small pasta like elbow macaroni, orzo, or farfalle.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding more chicken stock if necessary to thin the soup.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken would be a great substitute for the beef if you’re looking for a lighter version of this soup.

Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes, Pasta e Fagioli Soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve.

Can I freeze Pasta e Fagioli Soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well! Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop.

Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes, you can use dried beans, but you’ll need to cook them separately before adding them to the soup. Make sure the beans are fully cooked before adding them to the soup pot.

What can I serve with Pasta e Fagioli Soup?

This soup pairs perfectly with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Pasta e Fagioli Soup is the epitome of comfort food. With hearty beans, tender pasta, and savory beef in a flavorful tomato broth, it’s a meal that’s satisfying, nutritious, and easy to prepare. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or serving it at a gathering, this soup will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation!

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